In this episode, I unpack my wonderful vacation to Oahu, Hawaii, with a deep dive into how the flowers, sea animals, scents, and people inspire and re-energize my energy and commitment to my mindfulness practice. These two weeks of vacation are an important refresh, and the memories I make on these trips come back to me throughout the years, helping me be present for all the facets of my life.

On the island of Oahu, flowers hang in full bloom like lanterns, and sea turtles glide beneath the waves. In this episode, I reflect on the abundance of life in Hawai‛i and how it stirs something deep within me -- the rainbow shower trees, the fragrant trade winds with hints of plumeria, fruit and coffee, clay and salt air. But it’s the sacred honu (sea turtles) that have captured my heart.

I'm not just talking about travel, vacations are supposed to be otherworldly and blissful, but about being present, patient, and observant so that you can hold your experiences in your mind, body, and heart for years to come. From being surprised by a sea turtle swimming just inches away from me, to standing under showering blossoms, these days on Oahu felt like blessings, reminding me of the importance of slowing down.

Welcome to my reflections from the bright side of the beat.

If you like the podcast, head over to my website: lettheverseflow.com for more inspirational insights and resources, and sign up for Flow & Voice, a free monthly note with short, practical reflections on creativity and personal growth, plus occasional behind-the-scenes glimpses into my audio storytelling journey.

Music: All music for my podcast is sourced and licensed for use via Soundstripe.

Songs in this episode: Con Sazón by In This World; Some Kind of Wonderful by Nu Alkemi$t

Resources:

The Wilhelmina Tenney Rainbow Shower Tree “The Official Pride Tree of Honolulu”: https://www.queerhistoriesofhawaii.org/rainbow-shower-tree

Responsible viewing practices for marine wildlife in Hawai‛i: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/marine-life-viewing-guidelines

Related Episodes:

The Art of Deep Rest: Recovering Energy and Purpose Through Stillness (episode #56)

The Art of Belonging: Creating Space for Yourself (episode #43)

Mindfulness and Moderation: the Power of the Middle Way (episode #35)

The Nature Connection: Finding Peace and Perspective (episode #28)

Journal Prompts:

1. When I encountered ______, it changed my life in these ways...

2. Jot down one time during the day when you were fully present and in the moment. What did you take away from that moment? What was yours to keep?

3. How is striving getting in the way of experiencing life as it is right now?

Subscribe & leave a review if today’s episode helped you reclaim your sense of presence and wonder. 💜💛

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Prefer to read this episode? Read the complete episode in blog format here: https://www.lettheverseflow.com